Why Teeth Are Important for Jaw Bone Health

If you are missing a tooth or multiple teeth, it can lead to jawbone loss at the site of the gap, which is known as disuse atrophy. The loss of jawbone can develop into additional problems, both with your appearance and your overall health. You may experience pain, problems with your remaining teeth, and altered facial appearance, and eventually even the inability to speak and eat normally.

In the same way that you maintain your muscles through exercise, you maintain your bone support by using it. Your natural teeth are embedded in the jawbone, and stimulate the jawbone through activities like chewing and biting. When you are missing teeth, the alveolar bone, or the portion of the jawbone that anchors the teeth in the mouth, no longer receives the necessary stimulation and begins to break down, or resorb. The body no longer uses or “needs” the jawbone, so it deteriorates.

Kirk W. Noraian, D.D.S., M.S., P.C.

Bloomington Periodontist, Dr. Kirk W. Noraian, provides a variety of surgical and non-surgical services for the treatment of periodontal issues. We pride ourselves on the fact that we are very conservative in our treatment recommendations and limit surgery to the areas where it is absolutely necessary. Call Bloomington IL Office Phone Number 309-663-4577 with any questions or to make an appointment.